10 Things That Are Lowering Your Fuel Economy
January 18, 2026
Regardless of whatever current gas prices may be, if you could use less gas, wouldn’t you? Well, here are 10 things that are robbing you of better fuel economy that you can change for the better:
• Not enough air in your tires. Underinflated tires have a smaller rolling diameter and more resistance to rolling. Keep them inflated properly, plus ask us about more fuel-efficient tires.
• Faulty oxygen sensor. A faulty or dirty oxygen sensor can cause your engine to burn too rich a mixture of air and fuel. That can also trigger a Check Engine light. Have us check yours.
• Oil age and type. Contaminated or improper viscosities of engine oil can create more resistance in your engine. Have regular oil changes and consider newer high-mileage oils.
• Bad wheel alignment. When your wheels aren’t lined up straight, they have more resistance. Let us check your alignment and straighten things out if necessary.
• Aging ignition system. When’s the last time your spark plugs, spark plug wires and coils were changed? Misfires can rob you of good mileage.
• Dirty fuel injectors. They can be inefficient if they’re not clean. Have us check yours to make sure they’re working as they should.
• Fouled fuel filter. After filtering impurities out of your fuel, the filter may be clogged and affect your engine’s performance.
• Worn out or stuck brakes. This creates drag on the wheels and prevents you from rolling freely down the road. Have us inspect yours to see how yours are.
• Worn piston rings. These form a seal in the cylinder walls so you have top compression. When the seal is sloppy, down goes your fuel pressure and mileage.
• Poor maintenance. If you don’t keep your engine’s systems running efficiently, they can nibble away at your fuel economy.
Let us help you keep your eye on each one of these so you aren’t wasting money and gas.
Commerce Auto Repair
9575 Commerce Rd.
Commerce, Michigan 48382
248.363.3749
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